Description
Saint Mary Magdalene, witness to the Resurrection
Mary Magdalene stands in pale robes, holding a slender red ointment vessel, with her other hand raised. The full-length figure and gold-toned background keep attention on the disciple herself. This icon of Saint Mary Magdalene is especially appropriate for a home prayer corner or an Easter gift centered on the Gospel account of the Resurrection.
What the vessel means
The vessel is an attribute of Mary Magdalene as one of the myrrh-bearing women who went to Jesus' tomb with spices (Mark 16:1). It points to her faithful service at the tomb; it need not identify her with the unnamed woman who anointed Jesus' feet. The Gospels do not call Mary Magdalene a prostitute. Distinguishing these figures helps recover her particular place among Jesus' followers.
John 20:11-18 describes her encounter with the risen Jesus and her commission to announce the news to his disciples. This is the basis of the traditional title Apostle to the Apostles. Her July 22 celebration was raised to the rank of feast in the Roman calendar in 2016. The image can accompany reading of that passage or prayer focused on Easter hope and faithful witness.
Made to order in Poland
Art Christiana makes the icon on linden wood with two coats of primer, decorative gold-tone metal leaf, and an image printed directly onto the prepared surface. It comes with a certificate stating the year of production and a wall hanger.